Showtown: The Museum of Fun and Entertainment Shop, Blackpool

Client

Blackpool Heritage and Museum Trust

Expertise

Customer Experience Design · Environmental Design · Range Development

Showtown: The Museum of Fun and Entertainment Shop, Blackpool

The Challenge

Our task was to transform the engaging narratives of six immersive galleries – each showcasing captivating stories of the seaside, magic, circus, illuminations, shows, and dance culture – into a standout retail and egress experience for the museum.

As a key part of the overarching design brief, we needed to develop product ranges that would resonate with every member of the family, from grandparents to young children.

The Idea

From the outset, our approach was grounded in commercial viability, ensuring that the product mix aligned with the museum’s diverse audience and financial objectives.

Our strategy, product development and creative teams developed a wide array of ideas, all designed to fit within various licensing agreements and the Showtime brand. This process was meticulous, resulting in a dynamic fusion of nostalgia, history, magic, and, above all, fun.

Our environment designers fully embraced the Showtime theme, crafting a bespoke and unique set of fixtures that were not only functional but also eye-catching and on brand.

Recognising that the retail space plays a crucial role in the overall visitor experience, we paid special attention to visitor flow and operational ease. Strategic wayfinding and store layout ensured key sightlines and seamless navigation.

The final outcome is a moment of surprise and delight, an experience that mirrors the high standards of the museum’s superb galleries. The retail space is vibrant, lively, and full of unexpected delights, offering a sense of entertainment and exploration that reflects the unique personality of both the museum and Blackpool. There’s truly something for everyone!